Pa. Schools To Lose Millions In Federal Stimulus Funds

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — All across Pennsylvania, school districts are about to feel a real financial pinch.

It’s the loss of millions of dollars in economic stimulus money that President Obama funneled into school districts for the last two years, but now that comes to an end.

“Whether you’re a wealthier school district or a poor school district, when you’re talking those kinds of numbers in the millions your programs are impacted,” AIU Chief Financial Officer Patrick Sable said.

Pittsburgh Public Schools will lose more than $41 million; Woodland Hills – $4.9 million; $4.8 million for McKeesport; and $3.4 million for Penn Hills.

Most school districts in this region will lose at least a million in the coming fiscal year. Patrick Sable, who managed finances in three school districts, says it’s likely to get worse if Gov. Tom Corbett cuts school funding from Harrisburg.

“Will they be level funded at the same amount as last year? Most school districts are anticipating a reduction in that funding,” Sable said.

School districts across the state will have to decide whether to raise taxes or cut spending.